Any way to soften a stiff wool greatcoat?

[nos402]

I just acquired a WWII RAF WO Greatcoat (also a really cool Belgian Greatcoat). It's awesome but of course VERY heavy, stiff and scratchy.

Is there any way to "break it in"? I've read some posts around the net about soaking wool in hair conditioner but I definitely don't want to try it without getting some first hand advice first!

Thanks!

 

[H.Johnson]

I have owned a number of such greatcoats over the last 50-odd years and based on my own experience, I would say that wearing it regularly will soften it nicely.

Cheers!

 

[Creeping Past]

I just acquired a WWII RAF WO Greatcoat (also a really cool Belgian Greatcoat). It's awesome but of course VERY heavy, stiff and scratchy.

Is there any way to "break it in"? I've read some posts around the net about soaking wool in hair conditioner but I definitely don't want to try it without getting some first hand advice first!

Thanks!

Sleep in it, spray water on it, jump up and down on it.... Hang on, wrong garment.

Have it cleaned first. Heavy wool coats can hold the dirt a bit. Then, as HJ says, wear and see it comply....

 

[BaggyPants]

Hang it on the washing line and give a damned good thrashing with a tennis racket or similar